Autistic Artistic Carnival – a celebration of Autistic Pride

Twyla Tharp once said that ‘Art is the only way to run away without leaving home’. And for many people this is true and the escapism provided by art, in every form, often means more than the end result. There are a number of reasons why people may decide to make art, for example to tell stories, express opinions, to be creative, to make people think or to smile as well as just the sheer enjoyment of making something from nothing.
Art therapy is nothing new and widely seen as an effective therapy tool for any one on the Autistic Spectrum. The reason for this is that most forms of art is a very individual process, and an effective yet safe way for people to express emotions that they might otherwise keep bottled up such as frustration and anger. It has also been proved to help younger children develop their social skills.
Autistic Art has now developed into its own genre, with one of the most famous autistic artists Stephen Wiltshire, famous for painting landmarks he has only visited once, is now a key player in art circles. Whilst not everybody will break auction house records like Stephen has done, everybody can enjoy the pleasures associated with art. As well as this, there is evidence that suggests that art therapy has beneficial effects for those with autism. And with the new book Drawing Autism it has never been more prominent in the public eye.
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